Black mould is a common but serious issue in many UK homes, especially in properties that suffer from damp and poor ventilation.
If left untreated, it can pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
In this blog, we will explore:
- What black mould is?
- What causes mould?
- The potential health risks
- What to do if your Landlord fails to address the issue
What is black mould?
Black mould, scientifically known as Stachybotrys chartarum, is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, humid conditions.
It appears as dark green or black patches and often has a musty smell. The mould releases spores into the air that can cause severe health problems when inhaled over time.
What causes mould in your home?
Mould growth is primarily caused by excessive moisture, which can result from several factors, including:
- Leaks from roofs, pipes, or windows that allow water to enter your home.
- Poor ventilation can trap moisture, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Warm air hitting cold surfaces can create moisture buildup (condensation).
- Rising damp, as moisture from the ground seeps into the walls due to inadequate damp-proofing.
Can black mould damage a home?
As well as not being aesthetically pleasing, mould can damage many interiors and structures of the designs.
- Structural damage: Mould weakens wood, drywall, and fabrics, impacting your home’s structure
- Material and surface damage: It causes paint peeling, crumbling plaster, and breakdown of brick.
- Financial and health risks: Mould lowers property value, leads to costly repairs, and poses health hazards.
Black mould health risks
Exposure to black mould can have a range of health consequences, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions.
Symptoms of mould exposure include:
- Respiratory issues – coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
- Allergic reactions – sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rashes.
- Asthma attacks – a severe reaction in asthma sufferers.
- Chronic fatigue – persistent, overwhelming tiredness.
- Headaches – migraines.
Who is most vulnerable?
Black mould can affect anyone, but some individuals are particularly vulnerable, including:
- Children and babies.
- Elderly individuals.
- People with asthma and allergies
- Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or with chronic illnesses.
Who is responsible for the black mould in rented accommodations?
Responsibility for addressing dampness depends on the cause of the issue
Tenants must take responsibility for maintaining proper ventilation in the home. This includes ensuring windows are open when carrying out activities such as showering or doing laundry to prevent moisture buildup.
If the damp in a home arises due to the tenant not maintaining proper ventilation, it falls under the tenant’s to manage.
However, if the damp and resulting mould are caused by structural issues or penetrating damp, the Landlord is responsible for resolving the issue under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
Tenants should report any signs of mould to the council or housing association as soon as possible to ensure timely management and resolution. This helps protect both the tenant’s health and the integrity of the property.
Reporting black mould to the council
If you are a tenant and black mould has developed due to damp issues beyond your control, your local council or housing association is responsible for addressing the problem.
You should inform your Landlord or council by phone, via your online portal or email, providing evidence such as photos.
If the council or housing association does not take action, re-report the issue.
Maintain a record of all correspondence and responses regarding the issue.
The council should take the following steps to rectify the issue:
- Identify and fix the source of moisture e.g., repairing leaks, improving ventilation, or fixing structural problems.
- Professional mould removal in severe cases
Improve ventilation by installing extractor fans and dehumidifiers
If they don’t respond, get in touch with our disrepair team.
If the council or your social housing association fails to take action, you don’t have to suffer in silence.
At Liberay Legal, our expert housing disrepair team can help you take legal action and claim compensation for any health issues, property damage, or distress caused by prolonged exposure to black mould.
Don’t let black mould put your health at risk.
Contact our team today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the safe, mould-free home you deserve!
